Harassment By Supervisors In The Workplace

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The following is a case study on unlawful harassment by supervisors in the work place. The Industrial Revolution brought changes to the workforce for women; for men the change was not taken lightheartedly therefore men felt free to engage in behaviors that are now considered sexual harassment. Managers and organizations allowed harassment to occur, but as women began to gain equality in the workplace, woman’s attitude began to change. Harassment continues to be a recurring problem in the United States. The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), instituted policy guidance of procedures and duties for employers and employees titled “Guidance on Employer Liability for Harassment by Supervisors.” Although guidelines are not…show more content…
However, drawing the line between co-workers and supervisors has not always been easy, different states and its courts have applied different investigation as to weather a “Supervisor” “has the power, as set by an employer to take “tangible employment actions” such as discharge, promotion, or disciple against the employees claiming harassment.” (J. & E., 2010). The United States Department of Labor (DOL), on the other hand, does not permit harassing conduct by anyone in the workplace. “Prohibited workplace harassment may take either of two forms “Quid Pro Quo” (This or That) occurs in cases where employments decisions or treatment are based on submission to or rejection of unwelcomed conduct, typically conduct of a sexual nature. Hostile Work Environment Harassment results from the unwelcome conduct of supervisors, co-workers, customers, contractors or anyone else in contact at work” (United States Department of Labor, 2015) It is said that since the nineteen-eighties the courts in the United States have taken an aggressive role in trying to eliminate sexual and other forms of harassment in the workplace. “The following situations are examples of court cases that hold employers accountable for the behavior of their employees.” (J. & E.,…show more content…
Employers must avoid fallouts between supervisors and employees by implementing strong policies that explain in detail the terms, conditions and disciplinary consequences. Conduct training programs to educate employees on the issues of harassment. Encourage employees to step forward with confidence and discreetness to file a complaint, Offer counseling to employees who have felt harassed. Employers must provide a workable atmosphere for all employees and not second guess there co-workers, a company’s reputation is at stake when these kind of circumstances

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